“I wish Catherine Connolly well as she takes up office, recognising that this is undoubtedly a significant personal honour for her, and I hope to speak with her personally in the next number of days.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly has confirmed that she will not be attending the inauguration of Irish President-elect Catherine Connolly.
Catherine Connolly’s inauguration is set to take place on Tuesday, with First Minister Michelle O’Neill having already confirmed her attendance.
On Friday afternoon, Emma Little Pengelly confirmed that while she had been invited, she won’t be attending.
“I have received an invitation for the inauguration events for the Irish President on Tuesday but it will not be possible for me to accept due to a number of other commitments in Belfast and Windsor,” she said.
“Tuesday marks Remembrance Day, an important day for so many. I am scheduled to attend a service and to participate in an Act of Remembrance in Parliament Buildings before travelling to Windsor Castle at the invitation of Their Majesties, The King and Queen for a special reception to commemorate VJ Day 80th Anniversary to honour veterans of the Second World War, and in particular of the Pacific on this day of remembrance. It is therefore not possible to also attend the inauguration.
“I wish Catherine Connolly well as she takes up office, recognising that this is undoubtedly a significant personal honour for her, and I hope to speak with her personally in the next number of days.”
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